Mrs Biola Ariwodola, Chairperson of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) in Osun, has called for greater support for the rights of women and children.
She made the call on Wednesday at the maiden Ramadan lecture organised by NAWOJ in Osogbo, titled ‘Stakeholders’ Role in Protecting Women and Children — The Islamic Perspective.’
Ariwodola said women journalists had a duty to amplify the voices of women and children in Nigeria.
“Through our reporting, we have witnessed the devastating impact of violence, abuse, and neglect on women and children,” she said.
She emphasised the need for compassion, empathy, and kindness towards all, especially during Ramadan.
Ariwodola also stressed that protecting women and children required collective efforts from stakeholders, including religious scholars, community leaders, policymakers, and individuals.
She highlighted the significance of safeguarding their rights and dignity in communities.
“The Islamic faith places immense value on protecting vulnerable individuals,” she said.
Quoting the Quran (4:135), she added: “Allah (SWT) commands us to stand firmly for justice, even against ourselves, our parents, or our kin, whether rich or poor.”
Ariwodola said the lecture aimed to explore Islam’s perspective on protecting women and children.
“It will highlight our collective responsibility to uphold justice and ensure women and children are shielded from harm, exploitation, and abuse,” she stated.
She added that this included promoting education, healthcare, and economic empowerment while tackling domestic violence, child marriage, and human trafficking.
In his sermon, Sheik Almoruf Isola, Chairman of the Osun Muslim Pilgrim Welfare Board, called for government and community action to protect women’s and children’s rights.
Represented by Dr Badmus Abdulwaheed of Fountain University, Osogbo, Isola said citizens were regularly educated on these rights in religious gatherings.
“Islamic scholars and religious bodies discuss these issues in various forums, including Friday sermons,” he noted.
He urged religious leaders to reinforce these teachings in their messages so people hear them repeatedly.
“Religious scholars and leaders must advocate for the protection of women and children,” he said.
Isola also emphasised that justice was a key Islamic principle shared with the government.
“Government must ensure a balance between people and society,” he said.
